With the highest density of lakes in British Columbia, there’s an old saying for this part of the province – “fish a lake a day for every day you stay!” It’s true, BC’s Land of Hidden Waters has enough lakes, fly-in outpost camps, drive-in fishing camps, and lakefront lodges to never see the same spot twice. That is unless you get hooked and want to go back to the same place year after year!
Stocked with everything from rainbow trout, brook trout, lake trout and kokanee, anglers will have a heyday out here. Some fishing lodges also provide all-inclusive options as well as opportunities for canoeing, boating, kayaking, and swimming, meaning that along with the scenic natural beauty, non-fishers of your group will also have plenty to enjoy.
Here are 13 of our favourite fishing camps and resorts in BC’s Land of Hidden Waters:
1. SKITCHINE LODGE, BONAPARTE PROVINCIAL PARK
Nestled in a striking setting overlooking Dagger Lake and the impressive Skoatl Point, Skitchine Lodge is a fishing camp in the truest sense. It holds a maximum of 16 guests and features beautifully designed common areas, a shop, four lodge rooms, and two self-contained cabins.
Along with a main boat dock at the Lodge that is lined with gas-powered boats, there are 15 private lakes surrounding the resort, each with a minimum of two boats and a well-marked network of trails connecting them all, meaning that you can fish in a new and unique lake every day of your stay.
The best part is that your experience is all-inclusive, with locally sourced fine dining crafted by chef Terri Bowles (@terribowles). Forget the cooking, and focus on fishing, reconnecting with friends, and taking in the beauty of the region!
2. CIRCLE W HI HIUM FISHING CAMP, SAVONA
Founded in 1928, Circle W Fishing Camp is one of the oldest fly fishing retreats in British Columbia. An adventure right from the get-go, your stay begins with a boat ride to one of five rustic cabins tucked in remote bays or perched on the shores of the gorgeous Hi Hium Lake.
That’s right, the cabins are only accessible by boat (talk about seclusion!). With no running water, electricity, cell service, or wifi, this experience isn’t for the faint of heart but it’s the perfect adventure for those looking to completely disconnect from modern life and reconnect with those important to you.
3. KNOUFF LAKE WILDERNESS RESORT, HEFFLEY CREEK
Just 40 minutes from Kamloops, Knouff Lake Wilderness Resort is a 4-season resort located on the picturesque Sullivan Lake. With its wholesome community feel, it’s the ideal choice for families or those looking for a fishing resort that offers a lot more than just angling.
Choose from RV and tent sites as well as 11 cozy and charming cabins – some of which are original, authentic log cabins from 1904! In the spring, summer, and fall, enjoy fly fishing or trolling and in the winter, experience the magic of ice fishing!
4. THE RUSTIC RESORT AT THUYA LAKES, LITTLE FORT
Uniquely perched between two picturesque lakes, the Rustic Resort offers more than just rustic charm! A family-friendly style fishing lodge with a casual and quaint ambience, the Rustic Resort is great for those looking for an affordable and fun fishing experience. Dog friendly as well, be sure to add Rustic Resort to your bucket list.
5. CAVERHILL FLY FISHING LODGE, BARRIERE
Despite their Barriere mailing address, Caverhill Fly Fishing Lodge is located deep in the isolation of the North Thompson Valley on Caverhill Lake. Enjoy the 10-minute boat ride to the resort, where you’ll then be met with charming accommodations and friendly smiles.
Take in the beauty of your surroundings, dine on locally sourced and chef-prepared cuisine, and fish on private lakes. Your stay at Caverhill promises to be relaxing and intimate as it only caters to a maximum of 12 guests.
6. PINANTAN LAKE RESORT, PINANTAN LAKE
The electric motor-only waters of Pinantan Lake make fishing here a calm and peaceful experience for all levels and ages. Despite being located just 20 minutes outside of Kamloops, Pinantan Lake Resort’s serene country-side environment makes it feel like a true rural lake escape.
With its short distance from the city, bringing your own boat is an easy task but if you don’t have one, they also offer many rental options. Choose from cabins, RV sites, or trailer rentals at this family and dog-friendly resort.
7. HIHIUME LAKE FISHING RESORT, LOON LAKE
HiHium translates to the “Mother of all Fish” which given the amount of pristine fish that are naturally produced here, is quite an appropriate name! After checking in at the resort’s basecamp located near Loon Lake, guests pick up a map and drive to camp where they’ll be greeted with a phenomenal mountain view and the promise of excellent fishing.
But what makes HiHiume Lake Resort special? The resort’s remote and private location relieves the lake of angling pressure, allowing fish to grow larger here. Not only this but the high elevation and underwater springs that feed the lake actually cool the water during the summer months allowing the fish to stay healthy longer.
8. STAR LAKE FISHING RESORT, CLEARWATER
Star Lake Fishing Resort rests on the edge of the Nehalliston Plateau overlooking the scenic North Thompson Valley and the friendly town of Clearwater. No matter if you’re fly fishing, trolling, or spin casting, you’re sure to find the famous Kamloops Rainbow Trout in these waters. Along with spectacular glistening water, the majestic mountains of Wells Gray Provincial Park serve as a picturesque backdrop.
9. EVERGREEN FISHING RESORT, CLINTON
One of multiple resorts on the popular Loon Lake, Evergreen Fishing Resort is tucked in a picturesque valley setting surrounded by rolling mountains. Family-owned for over 65 years, visitors love Evergreen for its comfy log cabins, incredible fishing, wide array of boat rentals, and warm hospitality.
10. MARIGOLD FISHING RESORT, LOON LAKE
Also located on the shores of Loon Lake, Marigold Fishing Resort is a rustic and uncomplicated lodge complete with a general store as well as RV and cabin rentals. Along with being pet-friendly, Marigold offers half, full or multi-day rentals of pontoons, motorboats, electric fishing boats, fishing boats with oars, peddle boats, moorage, canoes and kayaks. Expect to spend a lot of time on the water here!
11. LAKESIDE HEFFLEY HIDEAWAY, HEFFLEY LAKE
Only half an hour from Kamloops, on the path to Sun Peaks Resort, lays Lakeside Heffley Hideaway complete with premium lakefront cabins and camping options. While Heffley Lake itself provides a fisherman’s paradise stretching 7.5km and plunging nearly 90 feet deep, the resort is also a haven for family members of every age and interest. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, it’s not just the anglers who are drawn here; there are ample opportunities for everyone to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether it’s paddling in the quiet shallows, thrilling at the fight of a high-energy rainbow trout (don’t miss trying to beat the 11lbs 12 oz record catch!), or simply relaxing by the water, there’s something for all.
12. TUNKWA LAKE RESORT, LOGAN LAKE
Escape the bustle of modern life at Tunkwa Lake Resort, an hour southwest from Kamloops and a three-hour drive from BC’s Lower Mainland. This family-oriented escape offers cozy cabins complete with wood-burning stoves, perfect for creating that quintessential wilderness ambiance.
Renowned for its diverse outdoor activities, guests can enjoy incredible fishing for feisty rainbow trout, nature hikes, mountain biking, ATV riding, and spectacular wildlife viewing. As winter brings its frost, the clear, sunny skies and spectacular sunsets make for a perfect backdrop for ice fishing, pond hockey, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Tunkwa Lake Resort, a place where family adventures become timeless memories.
13. MOOSE CAMP FISHING RESORT, CLEARWATER
Last but not least is Moose Camp Fishing Resort, which was established in the late 1880s as a trap line headquarters by Ed Rioux (hence the name Rioux Lake). Steeped in a history of outstanding fishing, Moose Camp has been a favourite fishing spot for many savvy fishermen looking for backcountry wilderness experiences.
Some families have come annually for almost 60 years straight and have therefore shared this one-of-a-kind fishing getaway with 4 generations of their family. With 3 log guest cabins, fishing in over 20 lakes, and two private lakes, the resort is ideal for family vacations or quiet retreats. Fishing here is excellent from mid-May until October and the average-sized fish is between 12-18” and up to 24” for the lucky fisher!
Before you head out to your favourite fishing spot or one of these 13 fishing camps, make sure that you have purchased your provincial freshwater Fishing Licence. As always, we also recommend doing your research and knowing before you go. Visit our responsible travel page for more information.
